ME413 MACHINE DESIGN 2 LECTURE NOTES ONLY 1ST SEM 2021-2022
MODULE 5 - BELTS
Coverage
5.1 Flat belts
5.2 V-Belts
5.4 Round Belts and Timing Belts
Fig. 5.1 Type of Beltsi
Belts are made of flexible materials that are used to
connect two pulleys to transmit power. Belt driven fans
are common in heating, ventilation, air-conditioning and
cooling (HVAC) systems.
5.1.1 Flat Belt
A power transmission belt, in the form of leather
belting, used where high-speed motion rather than
power is the main concernii.
5.1.2 Selection of a Belt Drive
Following are the various important factors upon
which the selection of a belt drive depends:
1. Speed of the driving and driven shafts,
2. Speed reduction ratio,
3. Power to be transmitted,
4. Centre distance between the shafts,
5. Positive drive requirements,
6. Shafts layout,
7. Space available, and
8. Service conditions.
5.1.3 Material Used for Flat Belts
Flat belts are usually made of leather, rubber and
fabric. Belts made of leather has high coefficient of
friction (can transmit more power) thereby ideal for
flat belts. To achieve the desired thickness of belt,
number of layers of belt material is cemented
togetheriii.
5.1.8 Efficiencies of belt joints
Type of joint Efficiency Type of joint Efficiency
(%) (%)
1. Cemented, 90 to 100 4. Wire laced 70 to 80
endless, by hand
cemented
at factory
2. Cemented 80 to 90 5. Raw-hide 60 to 70
in shop laced
3. Wire laced 75 to 85 6. Metal 35 to 40
by machine belt hooks
5.1.4 Working Stresses in Belts
The ultimate strength of leather belt varies from
21 to 35 MPa and a factor of safety may be taken as 8
to 10. However, the wear life of a belt is more
important than actual strength. It has been shown by
experience that under average conditions an
allowable stress of 2.8 MPa or less will give a
reasonable belt life. An allowable stress of 1.75 MPa
may be expected to give a belt life of about 15 years.
5.1.5 Coefficient of Friction between Belt and Pulley
The coefficient of friction between the belt and
the pulley depends upon the following factors:
1. The material of belt;
2. The material of pulley;
3. The slip of belt; and
4. The speed of belt.
According to C.G. Barth, the coefficient of friction f
for oak tanned leather belts on cast iron pulley, at
the point of slipping, is given by the following
relationiv, i.e.
140
𝑓 = 0.54 −
500 + 𝑉𝑚
where 𝑉𝑚 = Speed of the belt in fpm.
Leather on iron/steel, f = 0.30 and leather on
paper pulleys f = 0.50; Faires p. 445.
The following table shows the values of
coefficient of friction for various materials of belt and
pulley. Vallance and Doughtie p. 387, Table 16-6 and
Faires p. 450 Table 17.1
5.1.6 Standard Belt Thicknesses and Widths
The standard flat belt thicknesses are 5, 6.5, 8, 10 and
12 mm. The preferred values of thicknesses are as
follows:
 ME413 MACHINE DESIGN 2 LECTURE NOTES ONLY 1ST SEM 2021-2022

5 mm for nominal belt widths of 35 to 63 mm,

6.5 mm for nominal belt widths of 50 to 140 mm, 5.1.11 Velocity Ratio of a Belt Drive, VR
8 mm for nominal belt widths of 90 to 224 mm, It is the ratio between the velocities of the
10 mm for nominal belt widths of 125 to 400 mm, and driver and the follower or driven. It may be expressed,
12 mm for nominal belt widths of 250 to 600 mm. as discussed below:
𝑁2 𝐷1
5.1.7 Belt Joints 𝑉𝑅 = = .
When the endless belts are not available, then the 𝑁1 𝐷2
belts are cut from big rolls and the ends are joined 𝑊ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒:
together by fasteners. The various types of joints are 𝐷1 = Diameter of the driver, in
cemented joint, laced joint, and hinged joint. 𝐷2 = Diameter of the follower, in
𝑁1 = Speed of the driver, RPM
5.1.9 Types of Flat Belt Drives 𝑁2 = Speed of the driven (follower), RPM.
1. Open Belt System
The open belt drive, as shown below, is used with In case of a compound belt drive, the velocity ratio is
shafts arranged parallel and rotating in the same given by
direction. In this case, the driver A pulls the belt from Speed of last follower
one side and delivers it to the other side. The lower 𝑉𝑅 =
Speed of first driver
side belt is known as tight side whereas the upper side
belt is known as slack side, as shown below. Products of diameter of drivers
VR =
Product of diameters of followers
𝑁4 𝐷1 ∙ 𝐷3
𝑉𝑅 = = .
𝑁1 𝐷2 ∙ 𝐷4

2. Crossed Belt System

The crossed or twist belt drive, as shown below,
is used with shafts arranged parallel and rotating in
the opposite directions. In this case, the driver pulls
the belt from one side and delivers it to the other side.

5.1.12. Slip of the Belt

If percentage slip is given for each pulley, use the
following equation to find the unknown pulley speed
or diameter.
(a) Driver is the source of power:
𝑆1 𝑆2
𝑁2 𝐷2 = 𝐷1 𝑁1 (1 − ) (1 − )
100 100
𝑁2 𝐷2 = 𝐷1 𝑁1 (1 − 𝑆).
5.1.10 Belt Velocity
The velocity at which a belt travels may be (b) Driven is the source of power:
expressed as, V = πDN 𝑆1 𝑆2
Where: 𝐷1 𝑁1 = 𝐷2 𝑁2 (1 − ) (1 − )
100 100
V = linear speed of belt, ft/min = 𝐷2 𝑁2 (1 − 𝑆).
D = diameter of belt, ft
𝑆1 = % Slip between the driving pulley and the belt,
N = rotational speed of pulley, RPM.
 ME413 MACHINE DESIGN 2 LECTURE NOTES ONLY 1ST SEM 2021-2022

𝑆2 = % Slip between belt and the driven pulley, and ST = design or maximum tensile stress of belt,
𝑆 = % Slip total = (S1 + S2)/100 – S1S2/10,000 F1 = tight tension,
S ≈ (S1 + S2)/100 b = width of belt,
t = thickness of belt.
5.13. Creep of Belt
When the belt passes from the slack side to the 5.1.17. Design Stress of belt
tight side, a certain portion of the belt extends and it 𝑆𝑢
𝑆1 = ∙𝜂
contracts again when the belt passes from the tight 𝐹𝑆 𝐽
side to the slack side. Due to these changes of length, 𝑆𝑢 = ultimate strength of the belt,
there is a relative motion between the belt and the FS = factor of safety, 8 for rubber, 10 for leather,
pulley surfaces. This relative motion is termed as 𝜂𝐽 = joint efficiency,
creep. The total effect of creep is to reduce slightly S1 = design stress in tension (about 2 MPa)
the speed of the driven pulley or follower. Since the
effect of creep is very small, therefore it is generally 5.1.18. Mass Density of Belt
neglected. 𝑀
𝜌=
𝑏𝑡𝐿
1.1.14. Angle of Wrap Where:
(a) Open belt system 𝜌 = density of belt or specific weight
𝐷2 − 𝐷1 M = mass of belt
𝜃𝑆 = 180° − 2 sin−1 ( )
2𝐶 b = width of belt
𝐷2 − 𝐷2 t = thickness of belt
≈𝜋− . L = length of belt
𝐶
𝐷2 − 𝐷1
𝜃𝐿 = 180° + 2 sin−1 ( ) Note: the density of leather belt =
2𝐶 0.035 lb/in3 and density of rubber
𝐷2 − 𝐷2 belt = 0.045 lb/in3.
≈𝜋+ .
𝐶
Where: 5.1.19. Torque
C = center to center distance of two pulleys; A little consideration will show that torque exerted on the
𝜃𝐿 = angle of wrap in the large pulley; driving pulley is
𝜃𝑆 = angle of wrap in the large pulley. 𝐷
𝑇 = (𝐹1 − 𝐹2 ) ∙
2
(b) Cross belt system
𝐷2 − 𝐷1 5.1.20. Centrifugal Force
𝜃𝑆 = 𝜃𝐿 = 180° + 2 sin−1 ( )
2𝐶 The tension caused by centrifugal force is called
𝐷2 − 𝐷2 centrifugal tension. At lower belt speeds (Vs < 35
≈𝜋− .
𝐶 ft/sec), the centrifugal tension is very small, but at
higher belt speeds (Vs > 35 ft/sec), its effect is
5.1.15. Length of Belt Drive considerable and thus should be taken into account.
Open belt system 𝑉2
𝜋 (𝐷 − 𝑑)2 𝐹𝑐 = 𝜌𝑏𝑡
𝑔
𝐿𝑂 = 2𝐶 + (𝐷 + 𝑑) +
2 4𝐶 Where:
𝐿𝑂 = Pitch length of an open belt drive. 𝐹𝑐 = centrifugal force

Cross belt system 5.1.21 Power Transmitted

For Metric and SI
𝜋 (𝐷 + 𝑑)2 𝑃 = (𝐹1 − 𝐹 2 )𝑉𝑚 (kW)
𝐿𝐶 = 2𝐶 + (𝐷 + 𝑑) +
2 4𝐶 For English and United States customary units
(𝐹1 − 𝐹 2 )𝑉𝑚
𝐿𝐶 = Pitch length of cross belt drive 𝑃=
33,000
(𝐹1 − 𝐹 2 )𝑉𝑠
5.1.16. Width of the flat belt 𝑃=
𝐹1 550
𝑆𝑇 = 𝑃 = 2𝜋𝑇𝑁.
𝑏𝑡
 ME413 MACHINE DESIGN 2 LECTURE NOTES ONLY 1ST SEM 2021-2022

Where: weight of the motor, pulley, and mounting plate and a

P = power, hp share of the belt weight induces the correct initial
F1 = tight tension, lb tension and maintains it. A second way is use of a
F2 = slack tension, lb spring-loaded idler pulley, adjusted to the same task.
F1 – F2 = net belt pull = effective turning force, lb Both of these methods accommodate to temporary or
𝑉m = linear velocity of the belt, ft/min permanent belt stretch.
𝑉s = linear velocity of the belt, ft/sec 𝐹1 + 𝐹2
N = rotational speed of the shaft, rev/s 𝐹𝑖 = .
T = net torque, Nm 2
If Fc is relevant, then
Note: Power transmitted is maximum when 1/3rd 𝐹1 + 𝐹2 𝑇 𝑒 𝑓𝜃 + 1
of the maximum tension is absorbed as 𝐹𝑖 = − 𝐹𝑐 = ∙ 𝑓𝜃 ,
centrifugal tensionv. 2 𝐷 𝑒 −1
2
5.1.22. Tension Ratio 𝐹2 = 𝐹𝑐 + ∙𝐹.
𝑒 𝑓𝜃+1 𝑖
The tension ratio is defined as the tight side (or
load carrying) tension, F1, divided by the slack side 𝑒 𝑓𝜃
(or non-load carrying) tension, F2. Synchronous belt 𝐹1 = 𝐹𝑐 + 𝑒 𝑓𝜃 +1 ∙ 2𝐹𝑖 .
drives are generally pre-tensioned to operate
dynamically at a 5:1 tension ratio in order to provide 5.1.25 Advantages of flat belts
the best possible performance. • The efficiency of flat belts in 98%, which is equal
𝐹1 to that of gears.
= 𝑒 𝑓𝜃 • They have high load carrying capacity.
𝐹2
Where: • They can be employed where high operating
f = coefficient of friction, speed is required.
𝜃 = angle of wrap, while determining the angle of • They produce less noise compared to v-belts.
contact, it must be remembered that it is the angle • They can absorb shock loads compared to v-belts.
of contact at the smaller pulley, if both the pulleys
are of the same material; when the pulleys are
made of different material (i.e., when the 5.1.26 Disadvantages of flat belts
coefficient of friction of the pulleys or the • Flat belts cannot be operated on small diameter
angle of contact are different), then the design
will refer to the pulley for which efθ is small. pulleys.
𝑓𝜃
𝑒 = tension ratio. • If the working environment is corroding the belt
If centrifugal force is significant, Vs > 35 life decreases.
ft/sec (R. H. Creamer), 2500 ft/min (V. M.
Faires), 10 m/s (Khurmi & Gupta) then the 5.1.27 Rated capacity of V-belts
tension ratio is: Hp = (hp/in Table 17.1 Faires)(b)(Cm)(Cp)(Cf1)(Cf2) …
𝐹1 − 𝐹𝑐
= 𝑒 𝑓𝜃 .
𝐹2 − 𝐹𝑐
C. ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLES
5.1.23 Effective belt pull
𝜌𝑉 2 𝑒 𝑓𝜃 − 1 1. A leather belt on steel pulley has a peripheral speed
𝐹1 − 𝐹2 = 𝑏𝑡 (𝑆1 − ) ( 𝑓𝜃 ). of 900 meters/min. Determine the coefficient of
𝑔 𝑒
friction developed at the point of slipping.
𝑃 550(𝐻𝑝)
𝐹1 − 𝐹2 = = . A. 0.35
𝑉 𝑉𝑠 B. 0.40
C. 0.45
5.1.24. Initial Tension D. 0.50
Initial tension is the key to the functioning of the SOLUTION:
flat belt as intended. There are ways of controlling 42.6
initial tension. One way is to place the motor and 𝑓 = 0.54 −
152.6 + 𝑉𝑚
drive pulley on a pivoted mounting plate so that the
 ME413 MACHINE DESIGN 2 LECTURE NOTES ONLY 1ST SEM 2021-2022

42.6 of belt is 1,200 N. What is the power transmitted in

𝑓 = 0.54 − = 0.50 ⇒ 𝐶.
152.6 + 900 kW?
A. 6 C. 10
2. Find the belt length at a 48-inch center distance B. 8 D. `12
connected in open belt. The pulley diameters are 6 SOLUTION:
and 18 in. 𝑃 = (𝐹1 − 𝐹 2 )𝑉𝑚
SOLUTION: 𝑚
𝑃 = (3600 − 1200)5 = 12,000 𝑁 ∙
𝑠
𝜋 (𝐷 − 𝑑)2 𝑃 = 12 kW. ⇒ D
𝐿𝑂 = 2𝐶 + (𝐷 + 𝑑) +
2 4𝐶
𝜋 (18 − 6)2 7. A line-shaft runs at 360 rpm. An 18 inches pulley on
𝐿𝑂 = 2(48) + (18 + 6) + the same shaft is belt connected to a 12 inches pulley
2 4(48) on the countershaft. From a 15 inches pulley on the
𝐿𝑂 = 134.45 in. countershaft, motion is transmitted to the machine.
Compute and check the required diameter of the
3. Find the belt length at a 48-inch center distance pulley on the machine to give a spindle speed of 660
connected in cross belt. The pulley diameters are 6 rpm. (ME Bd. Apr 97).
and 18 in. A. 14.25 inches C 10.5 inches
SOLUTION: B. 12.25 inches D. 8.5 inches
SOLUTION:
𝜋 (𝐷 + 𝑑)2 𝑁1 𝐷1 = 𝑁2 𝐷2 .
𝐿𝐶 = 2𝐶 + (𝐷 + 𝑑) + 360(18) = 𝑁2 (12)
2 4𝐶
𝑁2 = 540 rpm (speed of countershaft)
𝜋 (18 + 6)2 𝑁3 𝐷3 = 𝑁4 𝐷4 .
𝐿𝐶 = 2(48) + (18 + 6) +
2 4(48) (540)(15) = (660) 𝐷4
𝐿𝑂 = 136.7 in. 𝐷4 = 12.27, say 12 1/4 inches ⇒ B ■

8. A pulley 610 mm in diameter transmits 40 kw at 500

4. Find the smallest angle of contact on the pulleys for
rpm. The arc of contact between the belt and pulley is
an open belt drive with a 60 in center distance. The
144 degrees, the coefficient of friction between the
pulley diameters are 6 in and 12 in.
belt and pulley is 0.35 and the safe working stress of
SOLUTION:
The smaller arc of contact will be on the small pulley, the belt is 2.1 MPa. Find the width of the belt used if
𝐷−𝑑 its thickness is 16 mm.
𝜃𝑆 = 180° − 2 sin−1 ( ) A. 250 mm C. 340 mm
2𝐶 B. 300 mm D. 430 mm
12 − 6
𝜃𝑆 = 180° − 2 sin−1 ( ) 1st SOLUTION:
2(60) 610 500
𝜃𝑆 = 174.268°. 𝑣 = 𝜋𝐷𝑁 = 𝜋 ( ) (0.3048) ( )
1000 60
5. The pulley diameters are 8 in and 18 in, respectively. 𝑣 = 52.4 fps.
If there is 3% slip, find the rotational speed of the 18 𝑣 > 35 fps.
in pulley if the smaller pulley is rotating at 900 rpm.
A. 250 rpm C. 346 rpm Calculate the tension ratio:
144
B. 298 rpm D. 388 rpm 𝑒 𝑓𝜃 = 𝑒
(0.35)(
180
)𝜋
= 2.41
SOLUTION: Assume leather belts,
Assume the driving pulley as the source of power, 𝑃 = 2𝜋𝑇𝑁 ⇒ 40 = 2π(𝑇)(500/60)
𝑁2 𝐷2 = 𝐷1 𝑁1 (1 − 𝑆). 𝑇 = 0.763944 kNm.
𝑁2 (18) = (8)(900)(1 − 0.03). Next, calculate the net belt pull,
𝑁2 = 388 rpm. ⇒ D 𝐹1 − 𝐹2 = 2𝑇/𝐷
2(0.763944)
𝐹1 − 𝐹2 =
6. The velocity of a flat belt is 5 m/s. The tight side 0.61
tension of belt is 3,600 N while the slack side tension 2(0.763944)
𝐹1 − 𝐹2 = = 2.50473 𝑘𝑁.
0.61
 ME413 MACHINE DESIGN 2 LECTURE NOTES ONLY 1ST SEM 2021-2022

Calculate the belt width from the net belt pull Hp/in = 11.97
formula: Cm = 0.50Cp = 0.70
𝜌𝑉 2 𝑒 𝑓𝜃 − 1 Cf = 0.74 (oily, wet, dusty atmosphere)
𝐹1 − 𝐹2 = 𝑏𝑡 (𝑆1 − ) ( 𝑓𝜃 ) Hp = (hp/in)(b)(Cm)(Cp)(Cf1)(Cf2) …
𝑔 𝑒
ρ of leather belt = 0.035 lb/in = 9.73048 kN/m3.
3 30 = 11.97(b)(0.50)(0.70)(0.74)
𝜌𝑉 2 (9.73)(52.4/3.281)2 253 kN b = 9.7 in ≈ 10. ⇒ C.
= = .
𝑔 9.81 m2 D. FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT
𝜌𝑉 2 N
= 0.253 𝑀𝑃𝑎 = 0.253 . MCQ-PROBLEMS
𝑔 mm2
10. The power transmitted by a belt is maximum
Substitute the values now,
2.41 − 1 when the maximum tension in the belt is equal to
2504.73 = 𝑏(6)(2.1 − 0.253) ( ) A. the centrifugal tension
2.41 B. 2 times the centrifugal tension
𝑏 = 386 mm.
C. 3 times the centrifugal tension
The nearest choice is C.
D. 4 times the centrifugal tension
11. A leather belt on steel pulley has a peripheral
2nd SOLUTION:
speed of 400 m/min. Determine the coefficient of
This is the most likely solution of the proposer, by
friction developed at the point of slipping.
neglecting the centrifugal force:
A. 0.40
𝑃 = (𝐹1 − 𝐹 2 )𝑉𝑚
𝑃 40 B. 0.43
(𝐹1 − 𝐹 2 ) = = C. 0.46
𝑉𝑚 [(𝜋)(0.61)(500)] D. 0.49
(𝐹1 − 𝐹 2 ) = 2.50473 kN. 12. Find the belt length at a 72 in distance connected
𝐹2 = 𝐹1 − 2504.73 N. (1) in open belt. The pulley diameters are 6 and 12 in.
By tension ratio, then A. 162.34 in
𝐹1
= 𝑒 𝑓𝜃 B. 173.45 in
𝐹2 C. 123.55 in
144
(0.35)( )𝜋 D. 172.39 in
𝑒 𝑓𝜃 = 𝑒 180 = 2.41
𝐹1 13. A 6 in diameter pulley turning at 600 rpm is belt
= 2.41 (2) connected to ma 12 in Find the angle of contact
𝐹2
Substitute (1) in (2): on the small pulley for an open belt drive with a
𝐹1 72 in center distance.
= 𝑒 𝑓𝜃 14. The pulley diameters are 6 in and 12 in. The
𝐹2 speed of the smaller pulley is 600 rpm. If there is
𝐹1 /(𝐹1 − 2504.73) = 2.41 (3) 4% slip, find the speed of the 12 in pulley.
Let 𝐹1 = 𝑆𝑏𝑡, then A. 226 rpm
𝑆𝑏𝑡 B. 246 rpm
= 2.41 C. 268 rpm
𝑆𝑏𝑡 − 2504.73
(2.1)(𝑏)(6) D. 288 rpm
= 2.41 15. For a given belt a manufacturer gives a
(2.1)(𝑏)(6) − 2504.73
horsepower rating of 2.5 hp per inch of width
b = 340 mm. ⇒ C
based on a belt speed of 2600 ft/min. The drive is
to handle 10 hp and the arc of contact correction
9. A squirrel cage, line starting motor is rated at 30 hp at factor is 0.90. Find the width of belt needed.
1750 hp and delivers its power to a horizontal, flat Assume that the belt widths are available in 1-
leather belt located in dusty atmosphere. The motor inch increments.
pulley is 10 in in diameter. What width of medium A. 3 in
double-ply belt is needed? B. 4 in
A. 6 in C. 10 in C. 5 in
B. 8 in D. 12 in D. 6 in
SOLUTION: 16. A 3/8 in flat leather belt is 12 in wide and is used
𝑣𝑚 =πDN = π(10/12)(1750) = 5480 fpm. on a 24 in diameter pulley rotating 600 rpm. The
From Table 17.1,
 ME413 MACHINE DESIGN 2 LECTURE NOTES ONLY 1ST SEM 2021-2022

specific weight of the belt is 0.035 lb/in3. The How much horsepower can be transmitted?
angle of contact is 150°. If the coefficient of Assume the coefficient of friction to be 0.30 for
friction is 0.3 and the allowable stress is 300 psi each pulley.
how much hp can it transmit? A. 0.03123 hp
A. 34.5 hp B. 1.0234 hp
B. 69.5 hp C. 0.0100 hp
C. 78.5 hp D. 0.0090 hp
D. 54.5 hp 22. What is the surface velocity of a pulley 18 inches
17. 7. A 5 mm round belt connects a 20 mm pulley in diameter mounted on a shaft running at 250
with a 40 mm pulley. The center distance is 150 rpm?
mm. The 20 mm pulley rotates at 100 rpm and the A. 4.5 fpm
coefficient of friction of the belt is 0.25. Find the B. 48 fpm
horsepower capacity for this arrangement if the C. 125 fpm
allowable belt stress is 2.6 N/mm2. D. 15 fps
A. 0.12 kw 23. A squirrel cage, line starting motor is rated at 20
B. 0.23 kw hp at 900 hp and delivers its power to a
C. 0.00282 kw horizontal, flat leather belt located in dusty
D. 0.054 kw atmosphere. The motor pulley is 8 in in diameter.
18. A pulley 610 mm in diameter transmits 40 kw at What width of double-ply belt is needed?
500 rpm. The arc of contact between the belt and A. in
pulley is 144 degrees, the coefficient of friction B. in
between the belt and pulley is 0.35 and the safe C. 10 in
working stress of the belt is 2.1 MPa. Find the D. 12 in
tangential force at the rim of the pulley.
A. 2,405 N
B. 2,406 N V-BELTS
C. 3,321 N Definition.
D. 4,321 N V-belt is an n endless power-transmission belt with a
19. An open belt drive connects a 300 mm pulley to trapezoidal cross section which runs in a pulley with a V-
a driven pully 600 mm in diameter. The belt is shaped groove; it transmits higher torque at less width and
200 mm wide and 8 mm thick. The coefficient of tension than a flat beltvi.
friction of the belt drive is 0.3 and the mass of the
belt is 2.8 kg/m of belt length. The center distance V-belt Transmission
between the pulleys is 2 meters, the maximum
allowable tensile stress on the belt is 2.1 MPa.
The speed of the driving pulley is 600 rpm.
Determine the transmitted power in kW.
A. 10.9
B. 18.5
C. 20.3
D. 27.7
20. Determine the length of belt needed for a two flat
belt pulleys having a diameter of 70 cm and 30
cm. The center distance is 400 cm and pulleys
rotate in the same direction such that it operates
at 10 hp and 200 rpm.
A. 589 rpm
B. 859 rpm
C. 895 rpm
D. 958 rpm
21. A ¼ in round endless belt connects a 1 in diameter
pulley with a 2 in pulley; spacing between pulleys
is 4 in on centers. The allowable stress is 400 psi.
If the 1 in pulley is the driver and rotates 100 rpm.
 ME413 MACHINE DESIGN 2 LECTURE NOTES ONLY 1ST SEM 2021-2022

V-belts are widely used in industry and automobiles

because of its power transmitting capacity. the wedge
shape of the belt increases the area of contact with the
pulley there by increasing more friction which makes it
carry more power without slipvii.

V-belt types
1. Classical V-belt (classified by their dimensions from
A to E),
2. Narrow V series (classified by their dimensions 3V,
5V, and 8V), and
3. light duty Fractional Horsepower belt (classified by
their dimensions 2L, 3L, 4L, 5L). Their counterpart
cogged belt is classified by the letter X.

Construction of Heavy-Duty V-Belts

➢ classical section V-belts (Faires, Table 17.3
to Table 17.3) See construction belowviii.

Double-Sided Belts
They are used in applications where power
transmission is needed on both sides of the belt.
Depending on the width there are 3 types (sizes) of
double-sided belts; AA, BB, and CC.x

They are commonly used in textile and industrial

applications.
They have a good temperature resistance (-31°F to
158°F) but a limited resistance to oil. The way they are
measured is with the width of the cross-section center
(midpoint) and the internal length (in inches).

The included angle of most v-belt sections is 40°.
➢ narrow section V-belts (Table 7-1 to 7-7). See
construction belowix.
Banded Belts
They are used by original equipment manufacturers
in applications where the pulley design requires two or
more v belts joined together to connect multiple pulley
drives avoiding load fluctuations or belt turn over.
Depending on the width, and if they are cogged, there are
9 types of banded belts.
 ME413 MACHINE DESIGN 2 LECTURE NOTES ONLY 1ST SEM 2021-2022

applications. The way they are measured is by the top

width of the belt and the internal length. Depending on the
width there are 7 types (sizes) of Kevlar belts.

They have a good temperature resistance (-31°F to

158°F) but limited resistance to oil. The way they are
measured is by the number of bands, the width of each
band and the internal length.
They have good temperature resistance (-31°F to
Cogged Belts
158°F) and resistance to oil, grease, and moisture.
They are used in applications with small pulley
diameters and high speeds. The slots on the belt reduce
the bending resistance and keep operating temperatures Belt Length and Center Distance
lower. The way they are measured is by the top width of
𝜋 (𝐷 − 𝑑)2
the belt and the internal length. Depending on the width 𝐿 = 2𝐶 + (𝐷 + 𝑑) + .
there are 6 types (sizes) of cogged belts. 2 4𝐶
𝐵 + √𝐵2 − 32(𝐷 − 𝑑)2
𝐶=
16
𝐵 = 4𝐿 − 6.289𝐷 + 𝑑)
If the size of the smaller sheave is assumed and the
velocity ratio is known, choose the minimum center
distance as
𝐷+𝑑
They have a good temperature resistance (-31°F to 𝐶= + 𝑑 or 𝐶 = 𝐷 whichever is 𝑙𝑎𝑟𝑔𝑒𝑟.
2
158°F) but limited resistance to oil.
Where:
Metric Belts L = length of v-belt
They are used in industrial applications like fan belts, C = center distance tween sheaves
vacuums, and the printing industry. They can transmit 1.5 D = pitch diameter of the large sheave
to 2 times more power than classical belts. The way they d = pitch diameter of the small sheave
are measured is by the top width of the belt and the
Arc of Contact on Small Sheaves
internal length. Depending on the width there are 4 types
of metric belts and an additional 3 "hybrid modifications". 60° (𝐷 − 𝑑)
𝜃 = 180° −
4𝐶
Rated Horsepower of Classical V-Belt
.09
106 𝑐 2
𝑣𝑚 𝑣𝑚
𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝐻𝑝 = [𝑎 ( ) − − 𝑒 6] 3
𝑣𝑚 𝐾𝑑 𝑑 10 10

Where a, c, and e are constants for a particular belt

section. D is the pitch diameter of the small sheave. (See
Table 17.3)
They have good temperature resistance (-31°F to
158°F).
Design horsepower
Kevlar/Aramid Belts Design Hp = Transmitted Hp × 𝑁𝑠𝑓
Aramid belts are designed for some of the most
demanding applications where high resistance against oil, Where 𝑁𝑠𝑓 is the service factor (See Table 17.7).
grease, dirt, and moisture is required. The most common
applications are mowers, aerospace and military Adjusted Rated Horsepower
 ME413 MACHINE DESIGN 2 LECTURE NOTES ONLY 1ST SEM 2021-2022

No. of Belts = Design Hp/corrected hp = 55/17.01 =

Adjusted Rated Hp = 𝐾𝜃 𝑘𝐿 × 𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝐻𝑝. 3.23
The arc of contact factor and length of belt factors are Use 4 belts instead.
found in Table 17.4 and 17.5, respectively.
25. A slurry pump is to be driven by a 50 HP, 2400 rpm
Number of Belts diesel engine and operating under moderate shock
Number of belts = Design Hp/Rated Hp. load with service factor of 1.20. The pump will
operate at 800 rpm and using type B V-belt. The
Sheaves available small sheave diameter is 5.4 inches and
having a factor of 1.14. The arc of contact factor is
0.89 and the length of belt factor is 0.97. Find the no.
of belts used. (ME Bd. Apr 95).
A. 9 C. 11
B. 10 D. 12
SOLUTION:
Design Hp = Transmitted Hp × 𝑁𝑠𝑓
Design Hp = 50 × 1.2 = 60 hp.

ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLES

24. Find the number of narrow V-belts required if the

input power is 50 hp is provided by a squirrel cage
normal torque electric motor rotating at 1160 rpm.
The driven unit is a compressor that is operated 8
hours per day at 600 rpm. The desired center distance
is 75 inches.
SOLUTION:
From Machine Design of R. H. Creamer,
Table 17-2, Service factor is 1.1
Design hp = 50(1.1) = 55 The belt section is B, p. 456 Faires
Fig. 7-9
.09
Belt cross-section is 5V 106 𝑐 2
𝑣𝑚 𝑣𝑚
(Table 7-3) 𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝐻𝑝 = [𝑎 ( ) − − 𝑒 6] 3
𝑣𝑚 𝐾𝑑 𝑑 10 10
Minimum sheave Ds = 8.2 in
D/d = N/n = 1160/600 = 1.93. a = 4.7370
Let the trial d = 8.5 in b = 13.962
d = 8.5 – 0.10 (0.1 for 5V, 0.05 for 3V and 0.2 for 8V; e = 0.0234
p. 284 Creamer) From Table 17.3, minimum Ds = 5.4 in.
The actual driver sheave pitch diameter is
d = 8.4 in.
D = 8.4(1.93) = 16.2 in.
Vm = πDN/4 = π(8.4/12)(1160)/4 = 7653 fpm
L = 2(75) + 9π/2)(8.4 + 16.2) + (16.2 – 8.4)2/(4(75))
L = 188.84 in
Table 7-4
Arc of contact factor is 0.99
Table 7-6
Length of belt factor is 1.07 𝑣𝑚 = 𝜋𝐷𝑁 = 𝜋(5.4/12)(2,400) = 3393 fpm.
Table 7-7
For small-diameter factor, D/d = N/n = 2400/800 = 3.
Basic rated Hp/belt is 14.8
Rated hp = 14.8 + 1.26 “add on” = 16.06
Corrected Hp/belt = 16.06(0.99)(1.07) = 17.01
 ME413 MACHINE DESIGN 2 LECTURE NOTES ONLY 1ST SEM 2021-2022

1. An exhaust fan in a wood shop is driven by a belt from

a squirrel-cage motor that runs at 880 rpm,
compensator started. A medium double leather belt,
10 in. wide is used; in C = 54 in; in d = 14 in (motor).
(motor), in D 54 = in, both are iron. (a) What
horsepower, by ALBA tables, may this belt transmit?
(b) For this power, compute the stress from the
.09
general belt equation. (c) For this stress, what is
106 𝑐 2
𝑣𝑚 𝑣𝑚 tension ratio? (d) If the belt has stretched until s = 200
𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝐻𝑝 = [𝑎 ( ) − − 𝑒 6] 3
𝑣𝑚 𝐾𝑑 𝑑 10 10 psi on the tight side, what is the tension ratio? (e)
0.09 Compute the belt length.
106 13.962 2. A blower is operated 24 hours per day by a 20-hp high
= [4.737 ( ) −
3393 1.14(5.4) torque motor running at 1750 rpm. The small sheave
has a diameter of 7.1 inches; the speed ratio is 2:1.
33932 3393
− 0.0234 ] The center distance is 120 inches. Find the narrow v-
106 103 belt velocity and the number of narrow v-belt
𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝐻𝑝 = 5.792 required.
3. The marble tiling machine is designed to be powered
Adjusted Rated Hp = 𝐾𝜃 𝑘𝐿 × 𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝐻𝑝. by a 150 hp electric motor at 1,700 rpm using standard
= (0.89)(0.97) × 60 D-120 v-belts. The pitch diameter of the small sheave
= 5 hp is 152 mm and the driven sheave is 338 mm. Service
Number of Belts = Design hp/Adjusted rated hp factor is 1.2. Determine the angle of contact if the
N = 60/5 = 12 belts length of belt is 331.82 mm.
A. 134°
FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT PROBLEMS B. 165°
C. 168°
26. What is the range of the included angle of a pulley for D. 171°
a V-Beltxi? 4. A centrifugal pump, running at 340 rpm, consuming
A. 10°-20° C. 30°-40° 105 hp in 24-hr service, is to be driven by a 125-hp,
B. 20°-30° D. 40°-50° 1180-rpm, compensator-started motor; in to C 43 to
SOLUTIONxii: 49 in. Determine the details of a multiple V-belt drive
“V-belt drives are generally used when the distance for this installation. The B.F. Goodrich Company
between the shafts is too short for flat belt drives. recommended six C195 V-belts with 14.4-in and 50-
Owing to the wedge action between the belt and the in. sheaves; C = 45.2 in.
sides of the groove in the pulley, the V-belt is less
likely to slip, hence more power can be transmitted.
The included angle of the V-belt lies in the range of 5.3 Round Belts and O-ring Belts Informationxiii
30°-40° The nominal included angle of the V-belt Round belts and O-ring belts are light-to heavy-duty
shall be 40°.” power transmission belts. These products are also called
endless drive belts or endless round belts.
 ME413 MACHINE DESIGN 2 LECTURE NOTES ONLY 1ST SEM 2021-2022
Round belts are solid or hollow lengths of cylindrical
material. Round and O-ring belts are commonly used in
typical power transmission applications,
including industrial conveying,
packaging machinery, photocopiers and
printers, and imaging equipment.
In addition to providing power
transmission for straight conveyors,
round belts can be twisted 90 degrees (a quarter turn) to
turn a shaft whose axis is rotated a quarter turn from the
drive shaft.
Materials
Round belts are typically constructed of polymer
materials, specific types of which have different strength,
elasticity, and transmission characteristics.
Buna-N, or nitrile rubber, is a synthetic rubber
copolymer of acrylonitrile and butadiene. It is resistant to
petroleum hydrocarbons and is therefore useful in
applications involving oils, hydraulic fluids, and alcohols.
Buna-N's suggested operating temperature is
approximately -30° to 275° F.
Neoprene is a synthetic rubber — produced by
polymerization of chloroprene — which features good
chemical stability and excellent flexibility in a wide range
of temperature conditions. Neoprene is known to
withstand damage from twisting and breakage, and can
effectively operate at temperatures from -45° to 230° F.
i viihttps://sites.google.com/site/designoftransmissionsystems/Design-
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gSV6L8OQVEM
ii
-flat belt. (n.d.) McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific &
Technical Terms, 6E. (2003). Retrieved October 24 2021 from
https://encyclopedia2.thefreedictionary.com/flat+belt
iii-https://sites.google.com/site/designoftransmissionsystems/Design-
of-Flexible-Elements/belts/flat-belt
iv https://www.engineersgallery.com/coefficient-of-friction-
between-belt-and-pulley/
v https://testbook.com/question-answer/the-power-transmitted-by-a-
belt-is-maximum-when-th--5f52653c1d6495695d20ca62
vi McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific & Technical Terms, 6E. S.v.
"V belt." Retrieved October 31 2021 from
https://encyclopedia2.thefreedictionary.com/V+belt
Polyurethanes represent a diverse group of polymers
exhibiting excellent elongation, recovery, and toughness
characteristics. They are also flexible and abrasion-
resistant.
Rubber is a natural compound with uniquely elastic
properties. Rubber types include gum rubber and latex.
Size
Size specifications — cross-sectional dimensions and
length — are very important to consider when selecting
belts for a specific application. The image below shows a
cross-section of a hollow belt, with important
specifications labeled. When selecting a solid belt, only
outside diameter and outside circumference are
applicable.
Tensile Strength
A belt's tensile strength is the maximum
recommended tension during normal operation and is
specified in pounds, ounces, or other measures of weight
or force. Working tension is based on a belt's material
characteristics and preload stretching and elongation.
Standards
Standards related to conveyors and other power
transmission components typically cover round belts and
O-ring belts. Typical standards include:
BS EN 14973 - Conveyor belts for underground apps
ISO 22721 - Conveyor belts for mining apps
of-Flexible-Elements/belts/v-belt
viii
https://hvhindustrial.com/product/13918
ix https://hvhindustrial.com/product/13443
x https://www.apprep.com/belts-and-sheaves-v.htm
xi https://testbook.com/question-answer/the-included-angle-of-a-
pulley-for-a-v-belt-in-the--60950a3a8ae7bbb5daa673fe
xii https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/Mitsuboshi-Belting-v-belt-
for-general_171014471.html
xiiihttps://www.globalspec.com/learnmore/motion_controls/power_tra
nsmission_mechanical/round_o_ring_belts